In a significant move to celebrate one of Madurai’s most important cultural festivals, the district’s Collector, M S Sangeetha, announced a local holiday for May 12 to coincide with the Chithirai festival. This date marks the sacred event of Lord Kallalagar’s descent into the Vaigai River, an occasion that attracts thousands of pilgrims and holds deep religious significance for the city.
The holiday is part of the local government’s effort to allow residents and visitors to fully participate in the festivities, which are a major highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. However, while the day off is designated as a local holiday, it does not qualify as a public holiday under the 1881 Negotiable Instruments Act.
Working Day Compensation
To mitigate the impact of the holiday on administrative operations, June 14 – a Saturday – has been officially designated as a working day. Despite the holiday, essential services, including treasuries, sub-treasuries, and banks, will remain open with skeletal staff to handle any urgent matters.
The Chithirai Festival: A Celebration of Tradition
The Chithirai festival is a 15-day celebration that draws over 1.5 million visitors to Madurai. It officially begins with the flag hoisting on April 29 and features a series of vibrant and spiritual events, including the coronation of Goddess Meenakshi, the celestial marriage ceremony, the grand chariot procession, and Lord Kallalagar’s visit to the city. Throughout the festivities, the city is illuminated with dazzling lights, and the idols of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswar are paraded through the streets in a series of processions.
This festival is a testament to the cultural and religious heritage of Madurai, offering both locals and tourists an immersive experience in the city’s traditions and values. By declaring a local holiday, the authorities aim to ensure that devotees can participate in the celebrations without hindrance.
The collector’s announcement is expected to facilitate a smoother flow of activities, ensuring that both the spiritual and cultural aspects of the festival can be fully appreciated.
